BEIRUT (AP) — The Israeli military announced on Sunday that its troops have captured Beaufort Castle, a strategic mountain site in southern Lebanon, marking the deepest incursion into the country in over 25 years. The capture followed several days of airstrikes and combat with Hezbollah militants in nearby areas. The conflict escalated on March 2, when Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, a key supporter of Hezbollah.
Since the conflict began, Israel has conducted a ground invasion, taking control of numerous Lebanese villages and towns near the border. In response, Hezbollah has launched thousands of missiles and drones targeting Israeli forces in southern Lebanon and northern Israel. This military action occurs despite a nominal ceasefire established on April 17, and just days before scheduled talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington.
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a supporter of Hezbollah, expressed confidence in the group’s commitment to a ceasefire but questioned how Israel could be compelled to cease its military actions. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address the situation, labeling Israeli military operations as "unacceptable."
The Israeli military shared images of troops at the castle, with Defense Minister Israel Katz stating that the Israeli flag has been raised over the site. Katz indicated that Israel intends to maintain control of the castle while targeting Hezbollah's military infrastructure in southern Lebanon. The Beaufort fortress, originally built in the 12th century, has been a significant military asset throughout history and has been controlled by various forces over the centuries.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the capture of Beaufort as a significant shift in military policy, noting that Israel has killed approximately 3,000 Hezbollah militants since the conflict began. The area from the Litani River to the Zahrani River has been designated a combat zone, prompting some residents to evacuate due to ongoing strikes. Israeli forces are reportedly advancing towards Nabatiyeh, approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the city, urging residents to leave the area, including the coastal city of Tyre.
There has been no immediate response from Hezbollah or the Lebanese government regarding the Israeli military actions.
